First bus commutes across Sinamale Bridge free: MPL

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) revealed that bus rides between capital Male, airport island Hulhule, and reclaimed suburb Hulhumale, will be free initially, until the official commencement of bus commutes across the Sinamale Bridge.

Although the Sinamale Bridge is set to be open for public transportation on September 7, the Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure has not yet specified timings.

MPL's CEO Ibrahim Haleem said that official bus fares will be implemented a few days after the bridge is opened for public use.

"Before we officially begin bus commutes, we want to show people how the service will be provided. So starting from tomorrow, buses will travel [for free] between, Male and Hulhumale", said Haleem.

As of now, the MPL buses will only travel up to the Hulhumale terminal where commuters can use the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) buses to travel within Hulhumale.

Haleem revealed that bus schedules and ticket prices will be announced once the official commutes begin. He added that until the prices are finalized and announced, the bus commutes will be in service during peak travel times.

MPL has brought nine buses to the capital to begin public bus transportation across the Sinamale Bridge, and plans to use 22 buses for bridge commutes in the future.